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fratttymatty · 20 days ago

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The Jock Within

(All characters are 18+)

Eric had always been the quintessential, gay nerd—glasses perched on his nose, books piled high, and an encyclopaedic knowledge of video games. He was perfectly content with his world of fantasy, where he could escape into realms of adventure and heroism. But in the real world, he often felt invisible, particularly around the confident jocks at school.

One Friday afternoon, while browsing a local comic book store, Eric stumbled upon an old, dusty book tucked away in a corner. Its cover was faded, with strange symbols that seemed to shimmer under the light. Intrigued, he flipped it open and began to read. The pages were filled with spells and incantations, and before he knew it, he had uttered a few words aloud, laughing at the ridiculousness of it all.

As he closed the book, a sudden wave of dizziness washed over him, and he stumbled backward. The world around him blurred, and he felt as if he was being pulled through a tunnel of light.

When the sensation faded, Eric found himself standing in front of a mirror, but the reflection that stared back was not his own. Gone were the glasses and the lanky frame. Instead, he saw a tall, muscular guy with chiseled features and a confident grin—Ethan, the kind of jock he had always envied.

“What the—?” Eric gasped, his voice deeper and more commanding. Panic surged through him. Had that book really done this?

He tried to piece together what was happening. His thoughts, once filled with strategies for studying and discussions about the latest sci-fi novels, now seemed to swirl with excitement for sports, workouts, first person shooters + minecraft, and social gatherings. He felt an urge to hit the gym and play basketball, something he had never cared for before. He also stopped thinking about dating boys, only seeing himself dating girls. He also felt very homophobic.

As he navigated this new body, Eric—now Ethan—decided to test his transformation. He strutted out of the store and headed to the local gym, his confidence building with every step. The stares he received felt entirely different; people were looking at him not with indifference but with admiration.

One striking change was his hair. Gone was the blonde side part that he had always worn; in its place was a tousled, messy hairstyle that seemed to embody the carefree spirit of a TikTok star. The dark brown locks framed his face perfectly, falling in soft waves that exuded a relaxed, effortless cool. It had a charming disarray to it, almost like he had just rolled out of bed but looked effortlessly stylish.

But the most dramatic shift was in his body. Eric had always been average height and skinny, but now he stood at a towering 6'2", his broad shoulders and muscular build radiating strength and vitality. His biceps were defined, and his chest was broad, giving him a powerful presence. He could hardly believe the reflection—Ethan looked like someone who belonged on a sports team, not sitting at home studying.

“Hey, man!” a voice called out. It was Brad, the captain of the basketball team. “You coming to practice today?”

Ethan grinned, feeling a surge of camaraderie. “Yeah, wouldn’t miss it!”

Practicing with the team was exhilarating. Ethan’s body moved with agility and power, and he quickly impressed everyone with his skills. The adrenaline coursed through him as he dunked a basketball, the rush igniting a fire within that Eric had never experienced.

But one of the biggest perks of his transformation came in the form of his new girlfriend, Cassie. She was the ultimate cheerleader—blonde, bubbly, and absolutely stunning, but not exactly known for her brains. With her long legs and toned physique, Cassie was everything Ethan could have dreamed of. She’d been flirting with him ever since he transformed, and now they were the picture-perfect couple.

“Like, oh my God, Ethan! You were, like, totally amazing out there!” Cassie squealed, her voice high-pitched and full of enthusiasm. She bounced on her toes, her cheerleading uniform hugging her curves perfectly. “I, like, can't believe how good you are at basketball! You’re, like, so strong and stuff!”

“Just natural talent, babe,” he replied with a cocky grin, flexing his biceps as if to emphasize his new physique. Jess’s eyes sparkled with admiration, and she leaned in, giving him a quick kiss that made sure all their friends were watching.

Ethan loved the attention, both from Cassie and the crowd. He had traded in his old life for one filled with popularity, and it felt exhilarating. Cassie was always by his side, her bubbly personality adding to his newfound status. “We should, like, totally throw a party at my place this weekend! Everyone will be there, and it’ll be, like, so much fun!” she said, her excitement contagious.

Days turned into weeks, and Ethan embraced his new life. He found himself in the centre of the social scene, surrounded by friends, and even dating the head cheerleader, who adored his newfound charm.

Ethan began to embrace not just the confidence but also the attitude that often came with it. He started to act more cocky, revelling in the attention and admiration he received. One afternoon, at lunch, he and his friends were joking around, and he caught sight of a couple of freshmen sitting at a nearby table.

“Hey, look at those losers!” Ethan laughed, nudging Brad. “What are they doing? Planning a Dungeons & Dragons campaign or something?” The table erupted with laughter, and the freshmen shrank back, embarrassed.

Ethan revelled in the power he felt, but a small voice inside him—Eric’s voice—simmered with discomfort. It was a stark contrast to the kindness and acceptance he had always valued. But the thrill of being the centre of attention was intoxicating, and he found himself pushing the boundaries of his new persona.

Days passed, and Ethan continued to grow more arrogant. He’d strut down the hallways, flexing his muscles, high-fiving his teammates, and belittling those he considered beneath him. At one point, he overheard a group of students discussing a new video game, and he couldn't help but interject.

“Video games? Seriously? Don’t you guys have something better to do? Like, I don’t know, actually live your lives? Go lift some weights or something. Living in your mom’s basement can’t be fun!” He laughed dismissively, and his friends joined in, further reinforcing his newfound bravado.

The next day at school, he walked through the hallways with his head held high. When he bumped into Brad, the basketball captain, Ethan smiled.

“Yo bro, wanna go to the gym later?!" Ethan said cockily.

Brad’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, then he grinned.

“You got it, man! Let’s hit the gym together!” Brad said excited.

As time went on, the memories of Eric—the late-night gaming sessions, the comic books, the quiet moments of joy—began to fade into the background. Ethan thrived in the social scene, basking in the admiration and respect he commanded. He was no longer just Eric the nerd; he was Ethan the jock, and he loved every second of it.

One afternoon, as Ethan lounged at the park with his friends, he realized he had no desire to return to his former self. The excitement of being part of the in-crowd, of being respected and admired, felt too good to give up. He looked around at the laughter and camaraderie he shared with his new friends and felt a deep sense of belonging.

In the end, Ethan never sought out the spellbook again. He had fully embraced his new identity, reveling in the thrill of being a jock. “Who needs to waste time with video games and comics when I can be out here dominating?” he said, flashing a cocky grin. “I’m living the dream, and let’s be real—I’m too good for that nerdy life. This is where the real fun is.”

With a swagger in his step, he walked away, fully confident in the fact that he was the king of the social scene. As he tossed a basketball to his friends and kissed Cassie one more time, she giggled and said, “You’re, like, the best, Ethan! Let’s totally keep this vibe going forever!”, he couldn’t help but feel that he had truly arrived. And as he stepped into the future, he knew he wouldn’t look back—because being Ethan was just too good to be true.

Months passed since Ethan had shed his old identity as Eric, and life had never been better. He thrived in the spotlight, effortlessly gliding through his days as the star of the basketball team and the center of attention at every party. The transformation had solidified his place in the social hierarchy, and he relished it.

Cassie was always by his side, her bubbly laughter ringing in his ears as they navigated the halls of school together. “Like, I can’t believe how amazing you are, babe! You’re, like, totally the best!” she’d gush, her enthusiasm infectious. Together, they became the ultimate power couple, a fixture at every event.

One afternoon, as Ethan lounged with his friends on the bleachers after practice, he looked out over the bustling campus. The sun cast a golden hue over everything, and he felt an overwhelming sense of satisfaction. He had left behind the insecurities and awkwardness of his past, fully embracing this new life filled with confidence and camaraderie.

As he flexed his muscles and tossed a basketball back and forth with Brad, Ethan couldn’t help but smirk. He had become everything he had once envied, and it felt amazing. The laughter of his friends, the adoration of the crowd, and the love of a girlfriend who idolized him—it was everything he had ever wanted.

Looking around, he realized there was no going back. The thought of returning to his nerdy roots felt foreign, almost laughable. “Who needs that?” he thought, a cocky grin spreading across his face. This was his life now, and he was more than ready to own it.

With Cassie leaning against him, her laughter ringing out like music, Ethan looked ahead with certainty. The future was bright, and he was ready to seize it, one slam dunk at a time.

#male tf story #male tf #gay to straight #smart to dumb #nerd to jock #nerd to gym bro

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esotericalchemist · 9 hours ago

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𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐬 - 𝐁𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

Masterlist this series - TikTok (Matrix of Destiny) - Masterlist - YouTube (subliminals)

Mars in Gemini is quick, curious, and endlessly adaptable—a whirlwind of energy that thrives on variety and mental stimulation. This Mars pursues its goals with wit and agility, preferring clever strategies over brute force. When paired with Venus, the planet of attraction, this dynamic becomes even more intriguing, blending intellectual curiosity with charm and versatility. In this post, we explore the lively, communicative drive of Gemini Mars alongside possible Venus placements, uncovering how this combination shapes your approach to relationships, creativity, and ambition. With Mars in Gemini, success often comes through exploration, conversation, and thinking outside the box—proving that adaptability and a sharp mind can be just as powerful as persistence.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Aries, your approach to achieving your goals is dynamic, bold, and intellectually versatile. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, gives you the drive to act through curiosity, quick thinking, and adaptability. You thrive in fast-paced environments, juggling multiple projects and pivoting effortlessly between ideas. Venus in Aries, a cardinal fire sign, adds passion and fearless charm, showing that you attract opportunities by being direct, enthusiastic, and unafraid to take the lead. Together, these placements create a vibrant mix of mental agility and fiery determination, making you both a thinker and a doer.

Your Venus in Aries attracts success through your charisma and confidence. You magnetize opportunities by showing up with energy, courage, and a “let’s do this” attitude. You’re naturally drawn to goals that ignite your passion and allow you to showcase your leadership abilities. People are inspired by your boldness, and you thrive when pursuing challenges that let you stand out and test your capabilities. Venus in Aries isn’t afraid to chase what it wants, so your best opportunities come when you lead with enthusiasm and follow your instincts.

Mars in Gemini complements this by giving you the ability to think on your feet and act with versatility. Gemini energy loves variety and thrives on intellectual engagement, so you excel at brainstorming, problem-solving, and working in dynamic environments. While Venus in Aries pushes you to jump into action, Mars in Gemini ensures that you approach your goals with creativity and flexibility, using your wit and communication skills to keep things moving. This makes you highly effective in situations where quick decisions and mental agility are required.

To manifest your desires, align Gemini’s adaptability with Aries’ boldness. Start by letting Venus in Aries ignite your passion and confidence, then use Mars in Gemini to explore multiple pathways and refine your strategy as you go. The challenge with this combination lies in managing restlessness—Gemini’s tendency to scatter focus and Aries’ impatience for results can create a cycle of starting too many things without finishing. Success comes when you channel your enthusiasm into a clear direction, balancing your need for variety with the determination to see your goals through. By combining your fiery drive with your intellectual versatility, you can achieve a life filled with excitement, growth, and meaningful accomplishments.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐓𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐬 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Taurus, your blueprint for achievement is a unique blend of mental agility and grounded persistence. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, drives you to pursue your goals with curiosity, adaptability, and quick thinking. You thrive on variety and are highly skilled at juggling multiple tasks or exploring diverse interests. Venus in Taurus, a fixed earth sign, brings a steady, practical energy to how you attract opportunities, valuing stability, beauty, and long-term rewards. Together, this combination balances a restless, fast-moving mind with the ability to create lasting value through patience and consistency.

Your Venus in Taurus attracts success through your calm, reliable, and magnetic presence. Taurus thrives on stability and quality, so you naturally align with goals that involve building something substantial and meaningful over time. Others are drawn to your grounded nature, as well as your appreciation for beauty, comfort, and security. Whether in relationships, creative pursuits, or professional endeavors, you excel when your efforts focus on creating lasting results that bring both pleasure and practical benefits.

At the same time, Mars in Gemini gives you the energy and drive to explore ideas, communicate effectively, and act with flexibility. Gemini thrives on intellectual engagement, so you’re at your best in dynamic environments where you can use your wit and curiosity to innovate and adapt. While Venus in Taurus prefers slow, steady progress, Mars in Gemini encourages you to explore multiple pathways to success, making you resourceful and open to learning as you go. This combination makes you particularly effective in pursuits that require both strategic thinking and consistent follow-through.

To manifest your desires, blend Taurus’ persistence with Gemini’s adaptability. Use Venus in Taurus to ground your ambitions, focusing on goals that provide long-term satisfaction and align with your values. Let Mars in Gemini keep you mentally engaged, using your versatility to explore creative solutions and navigate challenges. The challenge with this combination lies in managing the tension between Gemini’s love for variety and Taurus’ preference for routine—you may feel pulled between starting new projects and sticking to what’s already established. Success comes when you balance your need for mental stimulation with your commitment to steady progress, creating a life that is both dynamic and enduring. By combining your intellectual flexibility with your grounded determination, you can achieve meaningful and lasting success.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With both Mars and Venus in Gemini, your blueprint for achievement is driven by curiosity, adaptability, and intellectual engagement. Gemini is a mutable air sign, emphasizing communication, variety, and mental agility. Venus in Gemini shows that you attract opportunities through charm, wit, and versatility, while Mars in Gemini fuels your energy for action with quick thinking and a love for exploration. Together, this combination creates a vibrant, dynamic personality that thrives on learning, connection, and the excitement of juggling multiple pursuits.

Your Venus in Gemini attracts success by making you highly engaging and socially magnetic. You naturally draw people and opportunities through your ability to connect, communicate, and keep things fresh and interesting. Venus in Gemini thrives on variety, so you align best with goals that involve intellectual stimulation, creative thinking, and room for flexibility. You excel in social or collaborative environments where your versatility and charm can shine. Whether in relationships, creative endeavors, or professional pursuits, your ability to adapt and stay open to new ideas ensures you remain ahead of the curve.

At the same time, Mars in Gemini provides the energy and drive to act on your ideas with enthusiasm and resourcefulness. Mars here loves mental stimulation and is motivated by curiosity, making you quick to initiate projects and eager to explore multiple pathways to success. You’re not afraid to pivot or shift strategies when necessary, and your ability to think on your feet allows you to thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments. While you may sometimes scatter your energy across too many pursuits, Mars in Gemini gives you the versatility to adapt and keep moving forward.

To manifest your desires, harness Gemini’s intellectual energy to stay engaged and focused. Use Venus in Gemini to build connections and explore opportunities, and let Mars in Gemini channel your curiosity into actionable steps. The challenge with this combination lies in balancing your love for variety with the discipline to follow through—you may start many things but struggle to bring them to completion. Success comes when you learn to prioritize your goals, using your natural agility and communication skills to stay on track. By combining your charm and adaptability with focused effort, you can achieve a life that is exciting, intellectually rewarding, and full of meaningful accomplishments.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Cancer, your blueprint for achievement blends intellectual versatility with emotional depth. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, drives you to act with curiosity, adaptability, and a love for exploration. You thrive on mental stimulation and dynamic environments, excelling at juggling multiple tasks and quickly finding creative solutions. Venus in Cancer, a cardinal water sign, brings emotional sensitivity, warmth, and intuition to the way you attract opportunities. Together, this combination creates a personality that is both quick-thinking and deeply caring, capable of balancing sharp mental agility with heartfelt intention.

Your Venus in Cancer attracts success through your nurturing energy and your ability to create meaningful, supportive connections. Others are drawn to your emotional authenticity, and you naturally align with goals that provide a sense of security, belonging, or creative expression. You thrive when working on ambitions that resonate with your values and offer the chance to care for others or build something lasting. Venus in Cancer ensures that your efforts are fueled by genuine emotional investment, giving your pursuits a deeper and more personal significance.

At the same time, Mars in Gemini provides the energy to act on your ideas with flexibility and intellectual curiosity. Gemini’s quick, restless nature drives you to explore diverse interests, communicate effectively, and adapt to changing circumstances. While Venus in Cancer may prefer a slower, more emotionally rooted approach, Mars in Gemini encourages you to stay mentally engaged and open to new possibilities. This combination makes you adept at pursuing goals that involve creativity, communication, or emotional storytelling, blending Gemini’s intellectual flair with Cancer’s heartfelt depth.

To manifest your desires, align Cancer’s emotional intuition with Gemini’s adaptable energy. Start by using Venus in Cancer to identify goals that resonate with your heart and provide a sense of fulfillment, then let Mars in Gemini drive you to explore the best ways to achieve them. The challenge with this combination lies in balancing Gemini’s need for variety and mental stimulation with Cancer’s desire for emotional security—you may feel pulled between chasing new ideas and staying connected to your deeper values. Success comes when you combine your sharp intellect with your caring nature, allowing you to create a life that is not only innovative but also emotionally rich and meaningful. By blending your adaptability with heartfelt purpose, you can achieve lasting and fulfilling accomplishments.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐋𝐞𝐨 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Leo, your blueprint for achievement is a vibrant mix of intellectual adaptability and bold, charismatic energy. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, fuels your drive with curiosity, quick thinking, and versatility. You thrive in dynamic environments where you can multitask, explore new ideas, and communicate effectively. Venus in Leo, a fixed fire sign, adds passion, creativity, and a flair for self-expression, showing that you attract opportunities through your magnetic charm and ability to captivate others. Together, this combination creates a personality that is dynamic, expressive, and capable of achieving success through a balance of wit and star power.

Your Venus in Leo attracts success by radiating confidence, warmth, and a strong sense of individuality. Others are drawn to your bold, larger-than-life energy and your ability to make any goal or project feel exciting and significant. Venus in Leo thrives in the spotlight, so you naturally align with ambitions that allow you to showcase your talents, take the lead, and inspire others. You excel in creative or leadership roles where your enthusiasm and ability to uplift those around you can shine. People gravitate toward your generosity and your knack for making everything you do feel unique and grand.

At the same time, Mars in Gemini gives you the energy to act on your ideas with agility and mental sharpness. Gemini’s love for variety and intellectual stimulation drives you to explore multiple pathways, brainstorm innovative solutions, and stay adaptable in the face of challenges. While Venus in Leo thrives on bold, focused passions, Mars in Gemini ensures that your approach to achieving goals remains flexible and open to new perspectives. This combination makes you a powerful communicator and strategist, capable of blending showmanship with smart, quick actions to bring your ideas to life.

To manifest your desires, align Leo’s passionate energy with Gemini’s mental versatility. Start by using Venus in Leo to attract opportunities that excite and inspire you, ensuring that your ambitions reflect your unique sense of purpose. Then let Mars in Gemini guide you to act with flexibility and creativity, exploring multiple strategies to achieve your goals. The challenge with this combination lies in managing Gemini’s tendency to scatter focus and Leo’s need for recognition—you may feel torn between pursuing new ideas and staying committed to your grand vision. Success comes when you balance your intellectual curiosity with your desire to create something truly impactful. By combining your adaptability with your bold self-expression, you can achieve goals that are both innovative and deeply rewarding.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐠𝐨 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Virgo, your blueprint for achievement is driven by a blend of intellectual agility and grounded practicality. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, energizes you with curiosity, adaptability, and a love for mental stimulation. You thrive on exploring ideas, multitasking, and engaging in dynamic environments. Venus in Virgo, a mutable earth sign, adds a discerning, detail-oriented energy to how you attract opportunities and pursue your goals. Together, these placements combine sharp thinking with meticulous effort, allowing you to align creative exploration with purposeful action.

Your Venus in Virgo attracts success through your precision, thoughtfulness, and ability to bring value and order to what you pursue. Venus in Virgo thrives on improving systems, refining processes, and aligning with goals that are both practical and meaningful. Others are drawn to your dependability, humility, and high standards. You naturally excel in roles that require attention to detail, service to others, or careful planning, and you’re most fulfilled when your efforts contribute to something beneficial and tangible. Success comes when your goals reflect your values of integrity, usefulness, and improvement.

Meanwhile, Mars in Gemini provides the energy to act on your ideas with enthusiasm and versatility. Gemini’s intellectual drive ensures that you’re always curious, open to learning, and quick to adapt to new information or changing circumstances. While Venus in Virgo may focus on perfection and careful analysis, Mars in Gemini encourages you to experiment, brainstorm, and pivot when necessary. This combination makes you particularly skilled in fields that require both creative problem-solving and meticulous execution, such as writing, teaching, research, or project management.

To manifest your desires, blend Virgo’s practicality with Gemini’s mental agility. Use Venus in Virgo to set clear, meaningful goals, ensuring they are aligned with your values and high standards. Then let Mars in Gemini energize you to explore multiple paths to success, keeping your approach flexible and innovative. The challenge with this combination lies in balancing Gemini’s tendency to jump between ideas with Virgo’s perfectionism—you may find yourself either spreading your energy too thin or overthinking small details. Success comes when you embrace Gemini’s curiosity while staying anchored in Virgo’s focus on purposeful effort. By combining your sharp intellect with your dedication to improvement, you can achieve goals that are both impactful and masterfully executed.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Libra, your blueprint for achievement is driven by intellectual adaptability and a natural talent for connection and diplomacy. Both Gemini and Libra are air signs, making your approach to success highly social, communicative, and mentally engaging. Mars in Gemini energizes you with curiosity, flexibility, and the ability to act quickly in diverse situations. Venus in Libra brings charm, balance, and a love for collaboration, showing that you attract opportunities through your ability to foster harmony and navigate relationships with grace. Together, these placements make you an excellent communicator and strategist who thrives in dynamic, collaborative environments.

Your Venus in Libra attracts success through your charm, fairness, and ability to create beauty and balance in any situation. Venus in Libra thrives on partnerships, whether romantic, creative, or professional, and you naturally align with goals that involve teamwork and mutual benefit. Others are drawn to your ability to see all sides of a situation and bring people together, making you highly effective in negotiations or collaborative settings. You excel when your ambitions are tied to aesthetics, relationships, or projects that require diplomacy and creative problem-solving.

At the same time, Mars in Gemini provides you with the energy and mental agility to pursue your goals in a flexible, versatile way. Gemini’s love for variety and quick thinking drives you to explore multiple pathways to success, keeping your options open and adapting easily to changing circumstances. While Venus in Libra focuses on harmony and collaboration, Mars in Gemini ensures that you stay curious and proactive, seeking out opportunities and solutions through communication and creative ideas. This combination makes you especially skilled in areas like writing, public relations, education, or any field that values interpersonal and intellectual skills.

To manifest your desires, align Libra’s desire for balance with Gemini’s mental versatility. Use Venus in Libra to build strong, meaningful connections and attract opportunities through your charm and diplomacy. Let Mars in Gemini fuel your energy to explore possibilities and act decisively when the moment is right. The challenge with this combination lies in avoiding indecision—Libra’s tendency to weigh all options and Gemini’s love for variety may make it hard to commit to one path. Success comes when you focus on clear priorities while staying flexible in your approach. By combining your sharp intellect with your ability to build harmonious relationships, you can achieve goals that are both innovative and deeply fulfilling.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐨 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

Having Mars in Gemini and Venus in Scorpio creates a dynamic and intriguing blueprint for achievement, blending intellectual agility with emotional intensity. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, drives you to act with curiosity, adaptability, and quick thinking. You thrive in environments where mental stimulation and variety keep you engaged. Venus in Scorpio, a fixed water sign, adds depth, passion, and magnetism to how you attract opportunities, ensuring that your ambitions are rooted in meaningful, transformative connections. Together, these placements create a personality that is both intellectually versatile and emotionally compelling, capable of achieving goals through a blend of sharp wit and profound emotional focus.

Your Venus in Scorpio attracts success through your intensity, loyalty, and ability to create deep, transformative connections. Scorpio’s energy is all about emotional depth and authenticity, so you align best with goals that feel significant and impactful. Superficial endeavors won’t satisfy you—whether in relationships, creative pursuits, or professional ambitions, you’re drawn to things that allow you to uncover deeper truths and create lasting change. People and opportunities gravitate toward your emotional magnetism and your ability to commit wholeheartedly to your goals.

At the same time, Mars in Gemini fuels your approach to action with mental sharpness and adaptability. Gemini thrives on variety and quick thinking, driving you to explore multiple options and pivot as needed. While Venus in Scorpio gives you emotional depth and a fixed sense of purpose, Mars in Gemini ensures that your methods remain flexible and responsive to new information. This combination makes you highly effective in pursuits that require both strategic thinking and emotional intelligence, such as research, communication, or transformative leadership roles.

To manifest your desires, balance Scorpio’s intensity with Gemini’s versatility. Let Venus in Scorpio guide you toward goals that resonate deeply with your emotions and values, ensuring they hold personal significance. Then use Mars in Gemini to explore creative strategies, communicate effectively, and remain adaptable in your approach. The challenge with this combination lies in balancing Gemini’s love for variety with Scorpio’s all-or-nothing focus—you may feel pulled between chasing multiple ideas and fully committing to one passion. Success comes when you harness Scorpio’s depth to anchor your ambitions while allowing Gemini’s mental agility to keep you open to new opportunities. By combining your intellectual resourcefulness with your emotional intensity, you can achieve goals that are both innovative and transformative.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Sagittarius, your blueprint for achievement is driven by an insatiable curiosity and a deep desire for exploration and growth. Both Gemini and Sagittarius are mutable signs, emphasizing adaptability, openness, and a love for variety. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, propels you into action through quick thinking, versatility, and a knack for juggling multiple ideas or projects at once. Venus in Sagittarius, a mutable fire sign, attracts opportunities through enthusiasm, optimism, and an adventurous spirit. Together, these placements create a dynamic combination of mental agility and visionary passion, allowing you to pursue your goals with creativity, excitement, and adaptability.

Your Venus in Sagittarius attracts success by radiating optimism, openness, and a hunger for meaningful experiences. People are drawn to your adventurous nature and your ability to inspire others with big-picture thinking. Venus here thrives on freedom and exploration, so your goals are often tied to pursuits that expand your horizons, such as travel, education, or philosophical endeavors. You align best with ambitions that allow for growth, both personally and professionally, and that challenge conventional boundaries. Your charm lies in your ability to make others believe in the limitless possibilities of the future.

Meanwhile, Mars in Gemini provides the energy and drive to take action in a flexible and creative way. Gemini thrives on mental stimulation and variety, making you adept at brainstorming, networking, and solving problems on the fly. You’re not afraid to pivot when necessary or explore multiple pathways to success, and this adaptability allows you to thrive in dynamic environments. While Venus in Sagittarius gives you a sense of purpose and vision, Mars in Gemini ensures that you’re constantly experimenting and refining your methods, keeping your approach fresh and innovative.

To manifest your desires, align Sagittarius’ expansive vision with Gemini’s agile problem-solving. Use Venus in Sagittarius to set inspiring, far-reaching goals that excite your sense of adventure and meaning. Then let Mars in Gemini guide you to act quickly and creatively, exploring diverse strategies and staying open to new ideas along the way. The challenge with this combination lies in maintaining focus—Gemini’s love for variety and Sagittarius’ need for freedom may cause you to scatter your energy. Success comes when you commit to a clear direction while embracing the flexibility to adapt. By combining your intellectual resourcefulness with your enthusiasm for growth, you can achieve goals that are both visionary and groundbreaking.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Capricorn, your blueprint for achievement combines quick-witted adaptability with steady, ambitious focus. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, energizes you with curiosity, flexibility, and a love for mental stimulation. You thrive in dynamic environments where you can juggle multiple ideas, adapt to change, and communicate effectively. Venus in Capricorn, a cardinal earth sign, grounds your approach to success with a strong sense of structure, discipline, and a focus on long-term goals. Together, these placements balance creative versatility with the ability to work persistently toward meaningful, concrete outcomes.

Your Venus in Capricorn attracts success through your reliability, professionalism, and ability to align with long-term visions. Others are drawn to your maturity and your knack for creating stability in whatever you pursue. Venus in Capricorn values practicality and purpose, so you naturally align with ambitions that offer tangible rewards and lasting results. Whether in relationships, creative endeavors, or career pursuits, you focus on building something meaningful and enduring, earning respect through your patience and dedication. You magnetize opportunities by presenting yourself as someone dependable and capable of seeing things through.

At the same time, Mars in Gemini fuels your energy with sharp intellect and a talent for multitasking. Gemini’s quick, agile nature allows you to explore diverse strategies and think creatively about problem-solving. While Venus in Capricorn ensures you stay focused on long-term outcomes, Mars in Gemini helps you keep things dynamic and engaging, making you excellent at navigating fast-paced or intellectually demanding environments. This combination allows you to approach your goals with both strategic discipline and an adaptable, innovative mindset.

To manifest your desires, blend Capricorn’s commitment to structure with Gemini’s love for exploration. Use Venus in Capricorn to set clear, realistic goals that align with your values and offer long-term satisfaction. Then let Mars in Gemini guide you to approach those goals with curiosity and flexibility, exploring creative solutions and adapting to changing circumstances as needed. The challenge with this combination lies in balancing Gemini’s tendency to jump between ideas with Capricorn’s methodical, steady approach—you may feel pulled between excitement and the need for focus. Success comes when you allow Gemini’s versatility to keep your journey fresh while trusting Capricorn’s steady discipline to carry you to the finish line. By combining your intellectual agility with your grounded determination, you can achieve goals that are both innovative and enduring.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐀𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Aquarius, your blueprint for achievement is powered by intellectual agility and visionary ideals. Both Gemini and Aquarius are air signs, emphasizing communication, adaptability, and a love for exploring ideas. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, drives you to act quickly, think creatively, and thrive in dynamic, mentally stimulating environments. Venus in Aquarius, a fixed air sign, attracts opportunities through originality, innovation, and your ability to connect with people on a visionary, forward-thinking level. Together, these placements create a personality that is quick, inventive, and deeply connected to the exchange of ideas.

Your Venus in Aquarius attracts success by radiating uniqueness, independence, and a progressive outlook. You naturally align with goals that allow you to break boundaries and contribute to the collective good. Venus in Aquarius thrives on individuality and innovation, so your charm lies in your ability to see the bigger picture, inspire others, and think ahead of your time. You’re drawn to pursuits that are unconventional, collaborative, or intellectually stimulating, excelling in roles where you can explore new technologies, ideas, or humanitarian causes. Others are drawn to your visionary nature and your ability to inspire change.

Meanwhile, Mars in Gemini fuels your energy with versatility and a quick, curious mind. Gemini’s mutable nature drives you to explore multiple approaches to achieving your goals, keeping you adaptable and resourceful in the face of challenges. While Venus in Aquarius gives you a vision of the future, Mars in Gemini ensures that you act on it with creativity and agility. This combination makes you a natural innovator and communicator, skilled at networking, brainstorming, and turning abstract ideas into actionable strategies.

To manifest your desires, align Aquarius’ big-picture thinking with Gemini’s adaptability. Use Venus in Aquarius to focus on goals that resonate with your ideals and sense of purpose, ensuring they reflect your vision for growth and progress. Then let Mars in Gemini guide you to take flexible, creative actions, exploring diverse pathways and building connections that support your ambitions. The challenge with this combination lies in managing focus—Gemini’s love for variety and Aquarius’ expansive thinking can sometimes lead to scattered energy. Success comes when you balance your intellectual curiosity with a clear direction, channeling your mental agility into pursuits that align with your long-term vision. By combining your sharp mind with your ability to inspire and innovate, you can achieve goals that are both groundbreaking and impactful.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 + 𝐏𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬

With Mars in Gemini and Venus in Pisces, your blueprint for achievement is a unique blend of intellectual curiosity and emotional sensitivity. Mars in Gemini, a mutable air sign, fuels your drive with adaptability, quick thinking, and a love for exploring diverse ideas and opportunities. Venus in Pisces, a mutable water sign, attracts opportunities through compassion, intuition, and creative imagination. Together, these placements create a personality that is versatile, imaginative, and deeply intuitive, capable of manifesting your goals by balancing mental agility with soulful intention.

Your Venus in Pisces attracts success by radiating warmth, empathy, and a deeply creative spirit. Others are drawn to your emotional authenticity and your ability to connect on a heartfelt level. Venus in Pisces thrives on ideals and inspiration, so you naturally align with goals that have emotional depth or spiritual significance. You excel in pursuits that allow for self-expression, healing, or contributing to the well-being of others, such as creative arts, counseling, or spiritual growth. Your charm lies in your ability to dream big and inspire those around you with your compassionate vision.

Meanwhile, Mars in Gemini gives you the energy and versatility to act on those dreams in a flexible, intellectually curious way. Gemini thrives on variety and mental stimulation, driving you to explore multiple pathways and solutions to achieve your goals. While Venus in Pisces grounds your ambitions in emotional resonance, Mars in Gemini ensures that you stay mentally agile and open to new ideas. This combination makes you highly effective in pursuits that require both creative imagination and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, such as writing, teaching, or artistic innovation.

To manifest your desires, align Pisces’ emotional depth with Gemini’s mental agility. Use Venus in Pisces to focus on goals that resonate with your heart and bring meaning to your life. Then let Mars in Gemini guide you to explore different strategies, communicate your vision, and remain open to unexpected opportunities. The challenge with this combination lies in balancing Gemini’s love for variety with Pisces’ tendency to get lost in daydreams—you may feel pulled between chasing new ideas and staying emotionally grounded. Success comes when you blend your intellectual resourcefulness with your intuitive insight, creating a life that is both inspired and practical. By combining your curiosity with your compassion, you can achieve goals that are both innovative and deeply fulfilling.

Masterlist this series - TikTok (Matrix of Destiny) - Masterlist - YouTube (subliminals)

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deepestdelulu · 10 days ago

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How to study like Paris Geller (detailed)

Create a "War Room" Study Space: Transform your study area into a command center. Fill a wall with whiteboards, calendars, and progress charts for each subject. Use different colored sticky notes for key topics and goals. This not only helps you stay organized, but also visually aligns you with your objectives.

Keep an Intensive Study Journal: Paris tracks her progress closely, and you could do the same with a daily study journal. Write down which topics you covered, how challenging they were, your energy levels, and what you’ll do to improve tomorrow. Review this journal weekly to track your progress and adjust your strategies.

Set "Record Times" for Difficult Topics: Paris loves challenging herself, so take the hardest topics and set time limits to master them. For example, "I’ll learn this chapter’s theory in two hours." Make it a personal “challenge” and track your record times. This gives you a sense of urgency and helps you progress quickly without getting stuck.

Find a Friendly Rival: Find a friend or classmate willing to “compete” with you, like Paris did with Rory. You can have “knowledge battles” where you race to see who can answer more questions correctly in less time. This builds confidence in your abilities and keeps you motivated.

Have Themed Study Nights: When you need a super-focused study session, try a “themed night.” For instance, if you’re studying history, play music from that era, surround yourself with related books, or even watch a short historical film before you start. This immersive approach can make studying feel more engaging.

Boot Camp-Style Q&A Training: Arrange “training” sessions where friends or family ask you rapid-fire questions on a topic while you try to answer at top speed. Paris would love this method to sharpen her mental agility and ensure she could think fast in oral exams or high-pressure situations.

Build a "Power Library" of Master Notes: Gather your best notes, summaries, and guides for each subject into a “power library” notebook or digital file. This should be your go-to resource, filled with diagrams, formulas, and key explanations. Keep it organized and up-to-date; having this will make you feel much more prepared and confident.

Explain and Analyze as if You’re Teaching: Paris masters topics by explaining them to others. After studying a topic, sit in front of a mirror or record yourself on video, explaining it out loud as if you’re teaching it. This teaching “rehearsal” reinforces your understanding and helps identify areas that need review.

Create a "Focus Code": Design your own unique focus ritual—maybe setting up specific objects on your desk or putting on noise-canceling headphones to help you get into “study mode.” This repeated ritual lets you focus quickly and trains your brain to associate these actions with peak productivity.

Schedule Mini-Tests and Mock Exams: Be your own teacher, like Paris, and plan mini-tests for each topic. These could be questions from books, articles, or even ones you make up yourself—just answer them as if they were a real exam. This prepares you for actual tests and reduces any exam-related anxiety.

I hope this helps, the key of studying is to romanticise it, at the end of the day you have to like it to make it productive. I you have more suggestions don´t even hesitate and write it down in the comments, I´m sure we can all help each other <3

✩‧₊*:・love ya ･:*₊‧✩

#aesthetic #coquette #dream girl #girl blogger #it girl #pink blog #that girl #pinterest #rory gilmore #gilmore girls #study aesthetic #study blog #romantizing school #coquettecore #it girl energy #girl blogging

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chiqelatasblog · 1 year ago

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-> Chapter One is here.

-> Ao3 link is here.

Pairing : Sub-Zero | Bi-Han x Reader

Tropes : arranged marriage, slowish slow burn, enemies to lovers, angst, hurt/comfort, protective!bi-han

Summary : It was inevitable that this moment would come. Ever since your brother took over as the head of the Tengu, he had been waiting for the opportunity to eliminate the Lin Kuei.

And now, that opportunity had finally presented itself, with you as the key to making it happen.

P R O L O G U E : Shadows of Yin

You had always known that this day would come.

The long-standing feud between the Tengu Clan and the Lin Kuei Clan has reached a critical point, and as a member of the Tengu, you find yourself at the center of this conflict. Your brother, -the head of the clan-, had been waiting for the perfect opportunity to eliminate the rival clan, and that moment had finally arrived.

The Lin Kuei has long been considered the most deadly and powerful clan in the Arctika region, if not the world. Their training from a young age and their sheer numbers made them a force to be reckoned with. You have grown up understanding the threat that the Lin Kuei poses. The ongoing conflict between the two clans had resulted in numerous failed assassination attempts on the Lin Kuei, fueling your brother's determination to put an end to the threat once and for all.

And now, you are the most important part of his strategy.

As the only warrior woman in the Tengu, you possess a unique power - umbrakinesis, the ability to control and manipulate shadows. While the other warriors are trained to take lives without hesitation, you have always struggled with the idea of killing. Your aversion to violence has made you an outcast within your own clan. The memories of your father's attempt to end your life at a very young age still haunts you at night. And serves as a burning reminder of the rejection and shame you have endured within your own family.

Despite the challenges and prejudices you face, you have dedicated yourself to honing your skills in stealth and agility, becoming a formidable warrior in your own right. You have pushed yourself to the limits, training tirelessly to overcome the physical differences between you and the other warriors. Your determination and resilience have earned you calloused hands and scars, a stark contrast to the expectations of a noble woman in your clan.

Now, as you find yourself married to the leader of the Lin Kuei, you are presented with a mission that will test your loyalty to your clan and your own moral beliefs. Your brother sees this marriage as an opportunity to infiltrate and dismantle the Lin Kuei, and he expects you to play a crucial role in this dangerous game of deception and betrayal. This marriage was your ticket to infiltrating the Lin Kuei Clan and gaining their trust, all in the name of bringing vital information back to your brother. It was a dangerous and high-stakes mission, but you were determined to do it.

The promise of acceptance and recognition within your clan hangs in the balance, but at what cost?

Will you be able to navigate the treacherous path ahead without sacrificing your own honor, values and principles?

Can you betray the trust of the Lin Kuei, the very people you have been taught to see as enemies, in order to fulfill your brother's ambitions?

You had never failed a mission before, and you were not about to start now. This was your chance to finally earn the respect and recognition that had eluded you for so long. With a steely resolve, you swore an oath to see the mission through to the end. You would not be deterred by the challenges that lay ahead.

You were a warrior, and you were ready to prove yourself in the most crucial mission of your life.

#bi han x reader #bi han x you #arranged marriage #slow burn #kuai liang #tomas vrbada #lin kuei #ao3 #ao3 link #fandom #mk1 2023 #mk1 #mk1 bi han #mk x reader #mortal kombat #bi han sub zero #hurt/comfort

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wonucheers · 2 months ago

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The heart i left behind | Nishimura Riki

pairing: ni-ki / nishimura riki x reader

Synopsis: in high school, a girl develops a crush on a boy during their first sports club meeting. after facing rejection from another crush, she decides to start fresh and begins texting the boy anonymously. their friendship grows through late-night conversations and friendly waves in the hall. as they get to know each other, unexpected challenges arise, testing their connection and making things complicated. the girl navigates the ups and downs of their relationship, discovering her own feelings along the way.

wordcount: 1, 068

warnings: cliche, soft, bittersweet, non-suggestive, slowburn, base on true story

genre: romance drama, coming of age

©️wonucheers

part 1

I'm standing there, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. I pulls at my friend sleeve, saying, “Hey, don’t leave me alone!”

“I can’t,” she reply, glancing toward the group. “The senior told us to gather already.”

“But I can’t do this…” i whispers, anxiety evident in her voice.

“No, you can. You’ll be fine,” she assure me, trying to keep my own nerves in check.

It was the first sports club meeting of the year. While she headed off to the athletic club, I was set on badminton. As I gather my things, the senior’s voice calls out, “Badminton club members, please return to the line. We will start our activities.”

I rush to the line, only to find someone sitting on the spot where I left my bag. “Um, sorry, I didn’t know this was your bag,” he says, looking a bit sheepish.

I’m taken aback. I’ve never met anyone quite like him. He wears a simple baby blue t-shirt and black tracksuit, yet his sharp features and lean frame stand out. His cheekbones catch the light as he turns to look at me, and I can’t help but notice his dark curls framing his deep-set, intense eyes. I nod, trying to play it cool, and move to another spot in the line.

Once the activities begin, the senior announces that those who can play should form doubles teams. My heart sinks because I’m not very good and decide to sit on the bleachers. But soon, he steps onto the court, and I can’t tear my eyes away.

The court buzzes with energy as players dash back and forth. He’s a tall figure dominating the net, smashes echoing like thunder. His partner, smaller yet agile, darts around the court with incredible speed. Their movements are fluid, a dance of strategy and skill. The crowd roars with every point, completely caught up in the excitement.

I’m so entranced by him that I lean over to the girl sitting next to me. “Do you know that guy’s name? The one in the blue shirt?”

“Oh, if I’m not mistaken, his name is Ni-ki. He’s a senior at my primary school.”

Ni-ki. The name sends a jolt through me, and I can’t shake off the impression he’s made.

Just when I think I’m lost in thoughts of Ni-ki, my actual crush, Sunghoon, appears. He’s also part of the badminton club, and just seeing him makes my heart flutter. We’ve been texting for a while, but we’ve never really talked face-to-face. It’s complicated, but I can’t help but feel a sense of belonging whenever I see him.

Today, I decide to take a leap of faith and text Sunghoon about my feelings. My heart pounds as I type, “Sunghoon, I wanted to tell you something… I’ve been thinking about you a lot lately, and I realized I have a crush on you.”

The three dots appear and disappear on the screen, and I can hardly breathe with anticipation. Finally, he replies, “Hi, thanks for telling me. I appreciate your honesty.”

My stomach drops. “So… what does that mean?” I type, my fingers trembling.

“I’m flattered, but I don’t feel the same way. I see you as a friend.”

The words hit me hard, and I manage to reply, “Okay, I understand.” He apologizes for hurting my feelings, and I try to assure him it’s fine. But inside, I’m crushed.

As soon as I close the chat, tears stream down my face. I can’t help but replay the conversation in my mind, his smile, the way he laughs—it all stings so much. Weeks pass, and though I try to move on, the ache in my chest remains, a constant reminder of vulnerability and heartache.

Moving on feels like trudging through a thick fog; each step is uncertain, and the path ahead looks blurry. Even the songs on the radio seem to haunt me with memories of him.

One day, my friend and I are heading to the canteen when I pass by Ni-ki again. The memory of him on the court floods back, and I can’t help but mention how attractive I think he is. “Why don’t you try him?” my friend suggests. “Maybe he could be a replacement for Sunghoon. Who knows? It might go well.”

Her words linger in my mind as I walk home.

On a random friday night, I make a bold decision. I text Ni-ki, but this time I’ll keep it a secret. My fingers hover over the keyboard, a rush of nervous energy surging through me. This is my chance to reach out, to finally connect with the boy I’ve admired from afar.

“Hey,” I type, feeling a mix of excitement and fear. “I know this is random, but I’ve been thinking about you lately. I’m your secret admirer.”

After hitting send, a wave of regret crashes over me. What if he thinks I’m weird? The three dots appear, disappear, then reappear. My heart races.

“Huh?” he replies, sounding surprised. “What is this?”

“It’s a long story,” I respond, my smile returning. “But I wanted you to know that i have some uncertain feelings for you..”

“Wow,” he says. “It’s my first time experiencing this…”

I can’t resist teasing him. “That’s a bit dramatic, don’t you think?”

“Maybe,” he admits. “But I’m definitely curious.”

“Well, now you know,” I reply. “But I’m still going to be your secret admirer. It’s more fun that way.”

“More fun?” he echoes, amusement evident in his tone. “Okay, I’m in. But how are we going to do this? Telegram or WhatsApp?”

“Telegram for now,” I suggest. “It’s easier to keep things anonymous. But maybe… we can switch to WhatsApp later.”

My heart skips a beat. Is it too soon to hope? The thought of him knowing it’s me, of him seeing my face, feels exhilarating.

We end up texting each other late into the night, sharing jokes and dreams. As I finally type, “Goodnight, sweet dreams,” I can’t help but feel a spark of hope igniting in my chest. Maybe this secret admirer thing could lead to something wonderful after all.

tbc.

#niki x reader #niki x y/n #niki x you #niki x oc #nishimura riki #ni ki fluff #niki enhypen #niki nishimura #nishimura riki x reader #nishimura riki x you #enhypen niki #sunghoon #sunghoon x reader #enhypen #enhypen fluff #idk man #the heart i left behind

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tbowaut · 3 months ago

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Shattering Mirror - Chapter 15 sneak peek

Tim has to learn how to roller skate for a mission, that's- yeah that's the context...

Over the next couple days, Tim's roller skating skills rapidly improved, their determination fueling their progress. Hours upon hours were spent in the mobility gym, with the sounds of wheels rolling across the polished floor echoing throughout. They started by perfecting the basics: maintaining balance, gaining speed, and turning with precision. Each repetition brought greater control and confidence and a rush of adrenaline they hadn’t realised they’d been missing. An excited grin grew tugged loose their lips as all the responsibility hushed quiet at the back of their mind.

As the sun rose and set, they soon incorporated agility exercises, deftly weaving through obstacle courses, ricocheting off inclines and performing daring acrobatic maneuvers on skates. Their body moved with grace and purpose, adapting to the newfound challenges.

With a firm grasp on movement, Tim advanced to wielding various weapons. Swords sliced through the air, and bo staffs spun with deadly accuracy as they honed their skills, seamlessly blending martial prowess with the fluidity of skating.

Finally, sparring sessions with Kon put Tim's abilities to the test. Blows were exchanged, and strategies were refined, all while balancing precariously on their skates. Through trial and error, Tim quickly adapted and before the hour was up they’d successfully kicked Kryptonian butt to Jupiter and back. As Kon glared at them from the floor, they snickered with a slight feeling of pride.

“Hey,” Kon pouted, taking their hand to help him to his feet, “ don’t get cocky, I got you like twice today,”

Humming non committedly in reply, Tim didn’t point out that it was 2/37, because really who was counting? Instead, they checked the time, finding only 4 minutes until they had to be across the mountain for the final mission briefing.

A playful smile slid on their face as they powered off the combat sensors for training. “Hey Kon,” They readied themself, angling toward the door. “Race ya,”

And then Tim was out the door, speeding down the halls and leaving Kon spluttering behind them. Cackling and knowing they had mere seconds until Kon was on their tail, Tim used every shortcut they could think of and closed every door in Kon’s way.

Rounding a corner they got to a long hallway with Arsonal and Green Arrow, arguing and blocking the way. With their speed, Tim made a quick calculation as inspiration struck; Kon would win otherwise, and they were –maybe, debatably– competitive so with Newton on their side Tim gave it a shot.

They built up speed, and jumped– bracing their legs on the walls in a spilt they pointed their toes at and incline. And like holding their hand out in the wind, they rose to the ceiling –soaring over the two screeching heroes below– before they tilted down to build back speed and rocketed down the hall; using their momentum to launch off another wall and change direction around the next corner.

They could hear Kon gaining on them as the entryway to the briefing room glowed a blue light down the dimly lit hallway. With a straight shot, they left an opening for Kon, reaching for their bow staff. They hooked it in the pocket of Kon’s leather jacket when he passed, slingshotting themself into the room and across the finish line.

At the crazy speed of flying Kryptonian and then some, Tim was forced to jump the meeting table even as they skidded to a stop.

The room fell into a stunned silence as the squeal of Tim’s rubber wheels echoed off the walls. Nightwing's domino eyes widened momentarily before a smirk appeared on his face. "Looks like you had fun," he commented, amusement clear in his voice. “And you were complaining…” Tim couldn't help but return the smile with a shrug, still breathless from the exhilarating race.

Batman looked at Tim like they were the reason he was getting gray hair, giving Tim a long, suffering sigh as he gestured for them to take a seat. “I’m going to have to ban roller skates as well as skateboards in the manor.” He clicked, glaring at Dick who shrugged in response.

"We have a debriefing to start. Take your seats." He ordered, sweeping his cape in a tired way that meant Bruce was questioning why he ever had children.

Tim felt a wave of adrenaline ebb away, replaced with the familiar focus that came with the task at hand. They carefully maneuvered around the table, taking a seat beside their fellow teammates. Kon, red-faced and trying to hide a grin, settled into a chair next to Tim and Bart was vibrating in his chair on Tim’s otherside.

As everyone settled, Batman stood at the head of the table, his commanding presence filling the room. "Now that we're all here," he stated, his gaze sweeping across the assembled heroes, "let's–

Green Arrow burst into the room, giving Tim a haunted expression. “Batman! I think that one’s possessed” He accused pointing a finger, cupping his hand in a way that seemed to make him think Tim couldn’t hear he added in a whispering tone “...It can fly”

Bruce gave Tim a flat look that said ‘why are you like this?’ and Tim answered with an innocent shrug.

#tim drake #timkon #ao3 fanfic #kon el #red robin #batfam #batsiblings #batfamily #batman #nonsense #ao3 writer #ao3 link #fanfic #fanfiction #wip

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samcurrentlywriting · 6 months ago

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Outside our comfort zone

Summary: The Bad Batch are still cadets, and need to prove themselves worthy of the money and efforts the Kaminoans spend for them. So, one day, Tech decides to modify the parameters for the battle simulation.

Word count: 1610

Prompts: "Injured" (main prompt) & "Comfort zone" (alt prompt)

Notes: This is a very quick soft cadet au story that kind of fits both prompts! I hope you enjoy!! (Banners & dividers by @summer-of-bad-batch)

Crosshair is crawling like a snake in the ventilation shaft, an activity he has found himself doing more and more often. He is silent and agile, and likes to watch people when they can’t see him. Usually, he just tries to spy on regs that were mean to his brothers, and then spills all their secrets. But that day, he sees Nala Se, the chief Kaminoan scientist, and Lama Su, the prime minister, walking together to her office, and the young clone cannot stop himself from following them.

By the time he reaches the best position to eavesdrop, they have already begun talking.

“Clone Force 99 is too costly, and not efficient enough to be worth the effort.”

“They will improve, but they need training. The work we have done on their enhanced abilities is of utmost importance. We need to test its limits.”

Crosshair swallows. He’s glad he followed his instincts. They’re talking about his squad. And not positively. The clone cadet sighs. They have been trying their best. But between the constant bullying from the regs and the countless medical tests they are always doing, they barely have any time to practice their combat techniques.

“Their efficiency is too limited. They’re unpredictable, and therefore dangerous, we don’t know how much their mutations have impacted their programming.”

Nala Se tries to say something, but Lama Su cuts her short:

“Unless you can get them to expand their comfort zone, I’m afraid we will have to cease this experiment and terminate all the specimens.”

Crosshair’s heart skips a beat, and he doesn’t wait to hear if Nala Se defends them. He needs to go back to their quarters.

When he opens the door, he is relieved to see his brothers doing ok. Wrecker is working on disarming some smoke bombs Tech made for him. Tech is lying in his bed, eyes riveted to his datapad. Hunter is playing with his knife in the center of the room, looking in the void. As soon as Crosshair enters, Hunter stands up to greet him, and frowns when he notices how disturbed his youngest brother looks.

“What’s wrong?”

“I overheard the prime minister talking to Nala Se. He said that we’re not good enough to continue the experience. That we stay in our comfort zone during training, and that it’s too narrow, and that we’re unpredictable. If we don’t get better, they’re going to kill us!”

“They can’t do this! We’re already so much better than the regs!” Wrecker shouts, flexing his muscles.

Hunter doesn’t say anything, but he holds Crosshair in his arms. The youngest clone is already taller than him, but he knows sometimes all Crosshair needs is reassurance, and feeling protected.

“What do you suggest, Tech?” He asks once he’s let go of Crosshair.

The second-born readjusts his goggles.

“We have another training session tomorrow morning. Nala Se always sets up the parameters so that they are quite easy. I suppose she is worried about damaging us, since she spent so much time researching us. However, I could hack into the system and change the parameters, making the simulation harder. If we pass, we will have proven that we can, in fact, go beyond our comfort zone, as he put it.”

The four brothers look at each other, a silent agreement forming between them.

“Do it, Tech.”

“Don’t kill us either.” Crosshair grunts, suddenly feeling sick.

What if Lama Su is right? What if they aren’t good enough?

“There’s nothin’ in this facility that can kill us, ah!” Wrecker replies, before going back to his smoke bomb.

“We need to plan strategies.” Hunter dictates.

They spend most of the night preparing different plans depending on the situation. When they go to sleep, they’re all so tired they fall asleep immediately.

The next morning, they all wake up a bit giddy, worried that this is their last chance to prove their worth. Tech works on his datapad for a little while, before confirming that the parameters of their simulation have been successfully changed. Hunter gives them a little pep talk before they go for breakfast in the mess hall. Luckily, this is one of the few mornings where the regs have better things to do than to bully them. They go back to their quarters to gear up, and walk to the simulation room. They step onto the elevating platform, and wait for their turn. They can hear blaster sounds and shouts from the group before them.

Hunter frowns. They’re the only ones this age going for the simulation room. They are better than the regs. But he assumes the constant medical testing and the general process of making them were expensive. Being better than the regs isn’t enough for them. They need to be profitable.

A green light flashes above their heads, and they brace themselves for the short way up. The platform shakes and begins its ascension. They enter the large simulation room, and catch a glimpse of the very much adult clones leaving the place. The members of Clone Force 99 look barely older than twelve. Hunter breathes in deeply, then nodds to all his brothers. They can do this. In front of them, a red light turns on, and then a blue one. They spring into action.

Two seconds into the simulation, and they realize how different it already is. There are way more droids than usual, and they fire a lot. Hunter breathes in once more. When he’s calm and collected, he shouts:

“Plan forty-three!”

The four of them spring in action. Last night wasn’t the first time they devised plans. They heard a sergeant talk about a plan alpha once, and Tech thought it was a great idea to catalog all their strategies. Wrecker had the hardest time remembering the numbers, but he could guess which plan it was as soon as he saw how his brothers moved.

Crosshair climbs quickly on a nearby tower, avoiding the blasts from the droids below him. Hunter attacks the droids from the left, Tech from the right, and Wrecker runs through them in the center. They move to the second half of the room within minutes.

There is a tower they need to conquer. Hunter can feel there is an electromagnetic field protecting it, though he can’t see it. He signs at Crosshair, still on the tower:

There is a magnetic field, find the lever and deactivate it.

Copy that, the youngest clone signs back.

More droids advance to their position, and they need to move if they don’t want to be caught. They hear Crosshair shooting behind them, and Hunter feels the magnetic field disappearing.

“Forward!” He yells.

They attack the droids standing in their way. Crosshair tries to take down as many as he can from where he is, but quickly realizes that he and his brothers are overwhelmed. Tech set the parameters too high. They aren’t good enough.

As if he has heard him, Tech turns to Crosshair and shows the tower canons with his hands. Crosshair nods and shoots these down one by one.

Down on the battlefield, Wrecker suddenly comes up with an idea.

“Tech, I’m gonna throw you towards the tower, and you can climb the rest.”

“This is too dangerous, you will not be able to defend yourself during this time, and risk getting shot.” Tech retorts.

“I got Crosshair and Hunter to protect me. We don’t have time to argue!” He adds when Tech raises his index and opens his mouth.

Hunter, who hears them despite the racket, places his back to Wrecker, both his training guns pointed to the droids.

Wrecker drops his gun, seizes Tech under the armpits and throws him with all his might to the tower, making him arrive about two thirds of its height. But as he hurls his brother, he feels a sudden pain in his back. He grunts, reaches for his gun and starts aggressively shooting all the droids around him. He knows this is a training, but the pain is very much real, and it burns him. Suddenly, all the droids stop moving, and he sees Tech waving from the top of the tower.

“Yeah Tech!”

He high-fives Hunter, who’s bearing a beaming smile. Immediately, he feels the pain in his back and falls to his knees. Crosshair and Tech run to him.

“You are injured. I told you that would happen.” Tech teased.

“You need a medic.” Crosshair whispers, frowning.

A kaminoan droid guides them outside the room, to the medical bay. There, another droid applies cold gel in the burnt area on Wrecker’s back.

“Wounds like these are not supposed to occur during your training sessions. It appears the strength parameters were tampered with. Do you want me to file a report?”

The four brothers glance at each other before shouting at the same time:

“No, no need!”

The droid leaves them alone in the room. They’re soaked in sweat, bruised, but happy. They made it! They didn’t even know they had it in them.

There is a knock on the door. They straighten. Lama Su and Nala Se enter the room, in that slow kaminoan fashion.

“That was an impressive display.” The prime minister says.

Nala Se stares at Tech, but her face is hard to read. Even Hunter cannot tell whether she is angry, or pleased, or simply doesn’t care.

“Once CT-9903 recovers from his light injury, you will begin the second phase of your training.” The chief scientist added, before leaving them alone once more.

They all smile and squirm with excitement. They can’t wait to go to a real battlefield, and fight off some real droids.

#summerofbadbatch2024 #week2 #injured #comfort zone #star wars #the bad batch #tbb crosshair #tbb wrecker #tbb hunter #tbb tech #tbb #fanfic #kamino #cadet au

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kaznejis · 1 year ago

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The Great Sunshine- Bucky Barnes x Reader (Part I)

Realisation had dawned upon you in that booth, your fingers stinging as you curled them together, jaw trembling as you scooped up your belongings and escaped the scene. They had done it, the team had finally done it. Half the population was back. Which could only mean that Bucky was back.

Word Count: 3.8K / Read it on AO3 / Series masterlist

A/N- This is a series- once there are multiple parts I will create a masterlist/ link it on this post. I hope you enjoy. :)

The last remnants of dust floated beyond your peripheral as you cast a finger along the shelves mounted upon the wall of the dingy motel room. It had been cheap, quick; no questions asked as the keys had been dropped into your palm, the corners of the frail woman’s eyes tight as she recognised you for the sparks at your fingertips and the static at the ends of your hair. You had simply nodded, eyes downcast as you turned to ascend the stairs layered in patchwork carpet, floorboards creaking as you searched the hallways for your soon-to-be humble abode, Room 208. The door was a dull red, marred with years of use, years of visitors like you; people looking for an escape, an undocumented place to hide.

Smoked-stained walls surrounded you as you carried out the usual ministrations- check under the bed, within the wardrobes, behind the shower curtain and finally, secure each and every potential entrance point. Routine procedures kept you safe, secure; allowed you to catch at least a portion of sleep each night that would be spent in the unfamiliar room.

You knew, deep down, that you wouldn’t be here long. The fickle remnants of time that you could grasp were running out, with each day that you made progress- a trail crept behind your every step. You’d catch glances of it in front of your apartment, at your usual table in your favourite coffee shop; frequenting places you had stepped foot in only days prior.

You were tired, so tired. Your energy depleting with each day of watching your own back, feeling your every footstep being retraced. You had been someone once, an Avenger in fact. Public appearances and intel missions had been the norm- you were appreciated for your agility and mind; tech-savviness and strategy moulded into one. Children dressed as your age appropriate counterpart for Halloween, people cheered as you defeated the baddie of the day; reaching for you and grappling at your suit as they praised the saviour that gracefully descended towards them. Their very own gods among men.

Then half the population disappeared, half of your friends disappeared.

He disappeared.

You had become desperate, everyone had; sleepless nights bled into sleepless days as the remaining ruins of the team searched every corner of intuitive technology and artificial intelligence in order to find something, anything that would get back the people you had lost. In hindsight, it had been a terrible idea, one doomed from the first inkling of a thought. It had been the beginning of the time travelling experiments, a test into the limits of the human body- the first of the tests to require a human subject, to which you had instantly volunteered yourself- pleading and begging with Tony to let you help, let you make yourself useful where you could. Desperation, after all.

Steves sombre eyes had watched as you were hooked to the machine, wires protruding from your arms and legs and chest, monitors readily waiting to take readings and stabilise in the event of an emergency, You had watched him back, a hopeful smile sent his way- you knew now what he had been thinking, knew exactly who he was thinking of. The man that would never have allowed you to volunteer yourself in the first place, the one that fought to keep you safe- even in that final battle in Wakanda, his hand gripped firmly within yours as he faded away, leaving you with nothing but the cold, empty chill of grief. Nevertheless, Steve had stood back; his form stoic and arms crossed.

Desperation.

Tony had given the thumbs up, granted you with an encouraging grin before disappearing behind the screen; Bruce had flicked the switches and pulled down his protective goggles. After that, you could only remember the pain. The spark of a faulty wire having come loose in the blinding light of the team’s excitement, in the blinding memory of the people you had all lost and that you could’ve possibly gotten back. But instead, the electricity had bolted into your body, through your blood and straight to your heart. As the pain coursed through your body, as your chest heaved and your arms writhed, something mutated within you. You would later learn that it had always resided in you, every time you had been back benched for a mission or held back, deemed ‘too weak’ for certain threats in comparison to the superhumans amongst the team, those powers had always been there. A beacon of wasted potential had always bleated within you; readily waiting to be activated.

If only it hadn’t activated once the world had already ended.

The failed experiment left you with a constant burn, a constant glow to your being as your powers rushed alongside your blood, beated alongside your heart, its thoughts intertwining with your own. Sparks emerged at your fingertips at the slightest physical touch, lights flickered when you felt anger- your own emotional intensity would be exposed within the glow of your eyes, every time.

You were insatiable. Unstoppable, you finally felt like you could make a change: truly save people from the dangers of society that remained. At first, you were a sign of hope- a sign that options were still out there, undiscovered equations and new possibilities. Breakthroughs were imminent, the team spent any given moment secluded to the confines of a laboratory- testing any and every possibility they could imagine. But, with new power comes new responsibility. You were a danger to yourself and the rest of the team. Your emotional instability halted your ability to truly hone your craft- the experienced sorcerers within the likes of Wanda and Doctor Strange were gone. Surrounded by scientists and assassins, you could only receive analytical advice- the best ways not to use your powers, how to keep yourself and others safe instead of what you needed to know, how to truly harness it.

A botched mission had ended it all- a simple intel task into an uprising post-blip gang ending in a field of scattered bodies; your powers had taken a mind of their own as the simple thrust of your hand had shot a line of electricity through the soldiers who had posed only a minor threat. The bodies of young men and young women ricocheting at your feet, electricity bleating from their pores and smoke rising from their skin. The bodies of people who had simply been fighting for what they had believed in, their fear manipulated and twisted into a desire to fight. Not a speck of blood stained your skin.

You had killed before, of course you had, but not like that. Not that many people at once.

You were a monster, slowly becoming unable to face the fear that your powers had begun to garner. The fans that had once bounded towards you in the street now kept their distance, flinching at the static of your electricity even if you made no move to wield it. However, the worst was the reaction from your friends, your counterparts, your family. They were wary, far too aware of the instability in the world and far too aware of the sensitivity of your powers adjacent to that, you were a ticking time bomb in a society hanging from mere seams. You were a liability to the team- both alive and dead.

So, you left. Packed a bag and fled the compound on foot in the dead of night, with a flick of your wrist the electric mainframe was down; effectively disabling the sensors that would have triggered the moment you had left the grounds.

That was the last you had seen of the Avengers.

In your wake, the team had seemingly continued on successfully. Only mere months after your escape, you had sworn as an entourage of previous customers suddenly appeared within the dead-end diner you favoured; tables and seats crashing to the ground as people were reinstated back into the universe. Beneath the table, your fingers had crackled with electricity- shock coursing through you as you watched an outbreak of turmoil; people screaming and crying, begging for help as they returned to a place they no longer belonged, the fear they had previously felt in that moment five years ago still remaining. It was almost as if they had blinked, never left at all.

Half the population was back.

Which could only mean that Bucky was back.

Your knees had shook as you clasped onto the side of the Diner’s wall, stomach churning as you imagined him reappearing in that field in Wakanda, grains of his being coursing back into reality in the same way the people in that diner had, his hand still outstretched; clasping onto your phantom hand that he had clutched onto five years prior as the world had ended. You imagined his hair, now long and healthy; the strands flying as he searched for you, his brain muddled with questions of where you were, where the rest of the team was. But you were here, outside of a stupid, greasy diner, and he was out there, alone in an overgrown valley; surrounded by unfamiliarity.

Your relationship with Bucky was a hard one to define- it had been everything and nothing all at once. Being on the run had been tumultuous, constantly watching your backs- in a world where you couldn’t trust anyone, you had known all along that you could trust Bucky. You lived within a mirage of safety beneath his ever-watchful gaze, basking in both his strengths and his horrors as you leaned upon each other for support. When the suggestion for Bucky to go to Wakanda arose, you readily volunteered to go with him, to help him break away from the demons that resided within. There, you had grown close, too close. Exposing yourselves to each other in both body and soul- nights spent intertwined together on that creaky wicker bed, nights spent with hands in his hair and hot breaths against the skin of your throat.

“Promise we’ll never be apart,” you had whispered one night, the crackle of the fire sounding nearby your connected bodies, your cheeks warm with love and adoration as you stared up at Bucky, “No matter what.”

He had smiled, cheeks crinkling as a hand moved to smooth your hair away from your face, the move complimented with a kiss pressed to the curve of your exposed shoulder, “Of course, Sweetheart.” His eyes had held nothing but sincerity then, and you had believed it. You had trusted that the world had finally calmed, the serenity of Wakanda weakening your lays of defence.

You had loved him, really truly loved him. You still did, of course you did- but you weren’t sure how to love someone who you hadn’t seen in five years, someone whose face you could hardly recall. A large, poisonous part of you wished that you had been blipped, lost in the wind so that you hadn’t had to experience the last five years. Hadn’t had to experience the feeling of your own body turning against you, the whole world turning against you. You could have simply reappeared beside Bucky, thrown yourself into his arms and cried into his shoulder- have blubbered out your love for him and pressed your lips to his, smiling against his mouth and celebrated being alive.

But instead, you mourned what had been lost in the event of your survival.

In the days following the world’s return, you had drowned in the depths of insecurity, the loneliness that had plagued you for five years warped your brain as you lived comfortably in the idea that Bucky wouldn’t come looking for you, that he had simply forgotten about you in the midst of the blip- but whilst you had lived, he had not; that Bucky from five years ago was the same one that had returned. The very same one that had stood in front of your apartment building only weeks later.

You had stood frozen, but undetected, around a corner; a nearby streetlamp buzzed and flickered as you stared horrified at the man only mere metres away. Your body practically ached with yearning as you stared at him, his hair buzzed and crop; strong shoulders accentuated by the lines of his cotton collared jacket. He stood at the top of the main entrance, a small sheet of paper held aloft in his hand. For a few moments he scoured the selection of buttons, before reaching forward and firmly pressing one.

You watched in horror as he pressed the intercom for your apartment.

Obviously, as you were cowering around a corner and not currently within the, no longer safe, confines of your apartment- the subsequent five presses to the intercom went wholly unanswered. Scratching at his stubble, you watched as he turned and walked back down the stairs of the main entrance before spinning on his heel and staring up at the building; a hand shielding his gaze from the bright street light above. You had luckily opted to leave the window closed and curtains open before leaving; no lights on, no sign of life- nobody home. It seemed that Bucky reached the same conclusion as he stared up at what he had assumed to be your apartment, as evidenced by the gusty sigh he released, shoving the piece of paper dejectedly into the pocket of his jacket.

The moment of reprieve allowed you to seclude into the depths of your mind, how had he found you? It seemed that the covert operations of his Winter Soldier days had never quite rescinded as he had evidently used some form of illegal means to know your location. Bribery, you had assumed, your landlord had been a blood-thirsty money hound; making it his mission to bleed you dry of every spare penny you owned. You held no doubt that he had practically spewed every detail about your life to Bucky the minute the bills had left his pocket.

Worry had crept through your veins then, up your arms and wringing at your neck- Bucky could not see you like this. You weren’t the same person you had been five years ago; the gleam within your eyes and the volts at your fingertips were evidence of that. There would be too much explaining to do, too much emotional turmoil to unpack, too much anger. You had to run, run from the responsibility and the very ties that had resulted in the circumstances of your life now.

You had to get Bucky away from the apartment you were about to vacate, lease be damned.

Manipulating the worry that had settled in your throat, casting tears within your eyes; you reached a hand forward, curling your fingers and reaching your conscience towards a street lamp further down the street; you knew that Bucky had taken on the responsibility of a saviour now, a true Avenger ready to jump to the rescue at any given moment. Your chest stuttered and heaved as electricity coursed through you, a fizzing sensation filled the back of your throat as the lamp’s heat shot upward, the bolts flying from the lightbulb as it exploded- the fuze blowing as sparks rained down onto the street. Bucky reacted instantly, sprinting towards the commotion; allowing you the precious time to run towards the building and jump the side fence, immediately scaling the fire exit and heaving open your apartment’s back window. Despite the weight in your chest, both from the exertion of using your powers and running, you allowed no time to breathe as you shoved whatever you could into a bag.

Despite your fervour, you managed a split second to glance out of the window; the same one that Bucky had looked up towards. Upon glancing down the street, you froze, horror climbing its way back up into your throat; eyes widening and hands trembling as you realised what you had done.

Not only had you blown the bulb within the street light, but also its entire electrical mainframe- the large metal structure of the light laying splayed across the street. But that wasn’t what the horror, what you had done was not a victimless crime. A young woman lay trapped beneath the fallen structure, crying and screaming out; her face a sheen of white as her breaths became meagre. A crowd were desperately attempting to lift the metal, Bucky included; his face juxtaposed the woman’s in a way, red and scrunched with exertion as he carried the weight of the entire pillar. You could only hold your breath as the metal was successfully lifted, the crowd parting as Bucky moved in to check the woman’s pulse. Her head went limp then, falling to the side under the exertion of her own pain; that sheen of white melting into a deep grey.

Gusts of wind trickled throughout the street, moving the hairs of the crowd; rustling the trees beyond which the branches curled and stretched outwards, mimicking the dance splayed upon the volts between each of your fingers. The dance intensified as Bucky looked towards the crowd and shook his head, remorse within the droop of his eyelids as he announced her death- his fingers still attached to the curve of her neck as his mouth crumpled and his opposed hand thumbed at the space between his eyebrows; his own hidden signs of despair.

That thought was all you needed to kick into action; haul your bags over your shoulder and exit the building- immediately beginning your hike in the opposite direction of the commotion. You were, well and truly, a monster. The first time it had been an accident, but this was no accident. You had pointed your mind towards the light, held a hand forward and manipulated a physical state of matter- that had been a conscious choice. But you knew, worst of all, you knew that Bucky would blame himself for this- blame himself for not reaching her in time, not being able to save her in time. You had caused that. You had allowed your emotions to get the better of you, allowed yourself to drown in the depths of your emotions. If merely seeing Bucky caused you to do that, you were a liability when at his side; just as you had been with the Avengers.

In that moment, you vowed that you would never see Bucky again, that you would travel to the ends of the Earth if it meant avoiding his trail; avoiding the way he made you feel. You would live a traceless life, until the day that everybody finally forgot who you were; left you to live in solitude, punishing yourself for the damage your powers had caused.

So, that is how you found yourself in that motel, in the room with the dull red door; with the woman at the front desk who had cowered at the sight of your powers.

Exhausted, you collapsed against the headboard of the old, rickety bed; the springs protesting as you shuffled into a comfortable position before switching on the cranky box of a television mounted upon a rotting wooden desk. You tended to allow yourself small comforts now, it had been two weeks since that fateful day; two weeks since you had last laid eyes on Bucky- though, you had felt him; felt him in the long lines at coffee shops, felt him amongst the shelves in the book store, felt him in the open plains of busy highways as you hitchhiked into the next city. He wasn’t far away, slowly but surely he was catching up.

And how right you had been.

As you fumbled with a torn string at the hem of your shirt, the news channel’s usual theme tune sounded; the bright logo casting shadows throughout the dingy room- the showing went through the usual ministrations of showing the weather, discussing the latest news; until the screen cut to two familiar faces. Instantly, you rose from the bed and stood in front of the television; nose practically pressed to the glass of the screen.

Upon the screen stood Bucky and Sam, both suited up and armed to the teeth; Bucky with his knives and metal arm on show, Sam with his shield- that shield. The sight of it only evoked a bitter feeling upon your tongue, your most prevalent memory of Steve was that of him showing no objection to you being used as a human-guinea pig in the team’s experiments. Nevertheless, both stood before the camera, expressions serious as the reporter introduced the two of them; a banner appeared on the screen detailing both their legal and ‘superhero’ names.

“So, gentleman, do you have any comments to give regarding the ongoing investigation?”

Bucky stepped forward, his jaw tight as he nodded, the reporter had to follow his actions with the microphone as he did; Bucky seemingly acting allergic to the technology as he moved away at every attempt of it being within a suitable distance of his mouth, “Upon the jurisdiction of Captain America himself, we vow today- we will take down whoever did this,” Sam nodded, his arm crossed and America emblem prominent as he surveyed Bucky as he spoke, “We believe that this attack is the beginning of a series of similar targeted attacks.”

You furrowed your eyebrows, attacks? You weren’t personally aware of any mishaps; maybe you had truly made it off the grid.

Sam stepped forward then, his gaze hard as he took hold of the microphone himself, “We believed the attack against Ailene Richards was a targeted one; she was a young woman with a bright future. Our evidence shows that the street light falling was no accident- the remains of the bulb were not only shattered, but they had exploded; the wires within the metal pole were torn to pieces.”

“Captain, are you suggesting that the causes of this attack were … supernatural, one of a sorcerer perhaps?”

“I am.”

“These are dangerous claims, how can you be so sure?”

“Because I was there.” Bucky stepped forward once again, his features took a new shade now- vengeance, “I saw that street light fall- those things are built with durability in mind; someone with extreme power, made sure that it landed on top of Miss Richards,” He paused then, his throat bobbing as he made direct eye contact with the camera, those stone-cold eyes piercing into your soul, “I watched as she died, so help me god, I will not rest until her life is avenged. Until I have found the person that did this.”

Whilst you had never felt so cold- the ice within your body made no move to thaw as the television exploded before you; your skin burning and hair tinged with heat as you simply sat, undisturbed; drowning within the depths of your mind.

It seemed that whilst you knew Bucky had been searching for the person you had once been, it hadn’t quite dawned upon you that he would also be searching for the person you had become.

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes x you #bucky barnes x y/n #bucky barnes #james bucky barnes #falcon and the winter soldier #marvel mcu #marvel #mcu fanfiction #bucky fanfic #bucky x reader

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covahno · 5 months ago

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You - Part 6 (Cliff hanger?)

[NSFW TEXT & IMAGES] - WARNING

Description: A girl (you) with an overpowered cursed technique but plagued by her *cough* slut tendencies and impulsiveness attempts to become a powerful sorcerer, but will her behavior hinder that?

Status: Complete

Other: Yuji Itadori x fem/reader, story contains smut, fight scenes, dark humor, smau.

The atmosphere at the dojo is lively and festive as preparations for the annual Jujutsu High Festival begin. The festival is a time of celebration, camaraderie, and friendly competition, and it provides a welcome break from the intense training and missions. Gojo announces that this year's festival will include a series of challenges designed to test both individual and team skills.

"You've all worked incredibly hard," Gojo says, his tone light but encouraging. "This festival is a chance to showcase your abilities and have some fun. Remember, it's not just about winning; it's about enjoying the experience and supporting each other."

The festival kicks off with a parade, the students and faculty of Jujutsu High marching through the streets in colorful costumes. The air is filled with laughter and excitement, and you feel a sense of pride and belonging as you march alongside your teammates.

The first event is a series of sparring matches, and the excitement is palpable as students face off in friendly competition. You find yourself paired with Yuta for your first match, and the two of you exchange a nod of mutual respect before the fight begins.

The match is intense, each of you pushing the other to your limits. Yuta's powerful curse technique is formidable, but you counter with your adaptive technique, dodging and countering his attacks with precision. The crowd cheers as you exchange blows, the thrill of the fight filling you with exhilaration.

The sparring match ends in a draw, both of you standing tall and smiling despite the exhaustion. The crowd applauds, and you feel a deep sense of satisfaction. Yuta extends a hand, and you shake it firmly, a bond of mutual respect solidified through the competition.

"That was incredible, Y/N," Yuta says, his voice filled with admiration. "You're an amazing fighter."

"Thanks, Yuta. You too," you reply, feeling a surge of gratitude for his kind words.

As the day progresses, you participate in various events, each one designed to test different aspects of your skills and teamwork. There's an obstacle course that requires agility and quick thinking, a target practice challenge that tests your precision, and a puzzle-solving event that requires strategy and collaboration.

Throughout the festival, you and your teammates support each other, cheering each other on and offering encouragement. The bond you've formed through countless hours of training and missions is evident in every interaction, and you feel a deep sense of pride in being part of such an incredible team.

One of the highlights of the festival is the team relay race, a challenging course that requires speed, coordination, and trust. You and your teammates line up at the starting line, the excitement and anticipation palpable.

The relay race begins, and you sprint forward, your heart pounding with adrenaline. The course is filled with obstacles that test your agility and coordination, but you navigate them with ease, your training and instincts guiding you.

As you reach the first checkpoint, you pass the baton to Yuji, who takes off with incredible speed and determination. The crowd cheers as he leaps over hurdles and dodges obstacles, his movements fluid and powerful. He passes the baton to Megumi, who uses his shikigami to navigate the more complex parts of the course with precision and skill.

Nobara takes the baton next, her fierce determination evident in every stride. She tackles the obstacles with relentless energy, her eyes fixed on the finish line. Finally, she passes the baton to Yuta, who sprints forward with unwavering focus, his curse technique providing an extra boost of speed and power.

You cheer loudly as Yuta crosses the finish line, securing a victory for your team. The sense of accomplishment and camaraderie is overwhelming, and you celebrate with your teammates, the bond you share stronger than ever.

As the sun sets and the festival winds down, Gojo gathers everyone for a closing ceremony. "Today was about more than just competition," he says, his tone filled with pride. "It was about celebrating our journey, our growth, and the bonds we've formed. You've all done incredibly well, and I couldn't be prouder."

The festival ends with a spectacular fireworks display, the night sky lit up with vibrant colors. You and your teammates watch in awe, the beauty of the moment a perfect reflection of the joy and camaraderie you've experienced throughout the day.

As the fireworks fade and the crowd begins to disperse, you find yourself walking through the festival grounds with Yuji. The night is quiet now, the festive energy replaced with a sense of calm and contentment.

"Today was amazing," Yuji says, his voice filled with warmth. "I'm so grateful to be part of this team, and to have someone like you."

You smile, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. "I feel the same way, Yuji. We've been through so much together."

Yuji nods, his expression thoughtful. "No matter what challenges we face, I know we'll get through them as long as we stick together."

The moment is tender and heartfelt, the bond between you and Yuji growing even stronger. As you continue to walk, you both begin flirting with each other shooting sexual dares at each other.

You can tell Yuji is excited at the thought of it but to shy to act on it.

You want him, and you want him now. "Yuji, follow me" "What? I already a-" You grab him by the collar of his shirt and pull him to a dark ally way deeper in the less busy parts of the festival. You throw him up against the wall causing Yuji's face to turn red and show his excitement. They began kissing in a sloppy and rushed manner with very little warning.

Y/n couldn't believe the intensity of the moment as she felt Yuji's hands under her skirt, exploring the wetness that had pooled between her legs. The excitement of being in a hidden spot at the festival only added to the thrill, and she moaned into his mouth as his fingers slid against her sensitive folds. The world outside the sanctuary of their makeshift hideaway faded away, replaced by the sound of their heavy breathing and the frantic beating of their hearts. His touch grew bolder, and you responded by gripping his shirt, pulling him closer, urging him to keep going. The warmth of his breath on your neck sent shivers down your spine, and she felt a rush of desire that was impossible to ignore.

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps approached, and for a brief second, panic flashed through both their eyes. But instead of stopping, you leaned in and whispered fiercely into Yuji's ear, "Don't stop." your voice was filled with a need that was as surprising to you as it was to him. He hesitated, but you reached down and gave his erection a firm squeeze, silently conveying her determination. The footsteps grew louder, and just as they were about to pass, you decided to act. You threw of your top and with a swift motion, you unzipped his pants, freeing his eager cock from its pants slapping your face. He looked down at you, your eyes filled with blind lust, and before he could protest, you pushed him off him slightly and dropped to your knees. The urgency of the situation only added to the thrill, and you took him in your mouth, eager to taste him.

Yuji's eyes widened as he felt the warmth and wetness of her mouth enveloping him, and he had to bite his lip to stifle a moan. The danger of getting caught only heightened the sensations, and he felt his cock throb in response. Y/n began tentatively, your inexperience evident in the gentle way you licked and kissed the tip. But you were eager to learn, to give him what he wanted, and you took him deeper, your tongue swirling around the shaft as you grew more confident. His hands found their way to her hair, and he couldn't help but grip it slightly, guiding your movements. The footsteps grew fainter, but the threat remained, adding an exhilarating edge to their encounter.

Y/n felt a thrill run through her body as you stood up and threw her skirt up, revealing your ass and the damp patch on your panties to Yuji. His eyes darkened with a dominant hunger you hadn't seen before, and you found herself craving his touch even more. He didn't waste a moment, pulling your panties to your thighs and pushing you against the wall

he starts entering you with ease, thanks to your arousal. The initial sensation of his cock sliding into you was heavenly, the tightness of your pussy making him feel even larger and more potent. you bit your lip to keep from crying out as he began to move, his strokes slow and deliberate at first, allowing her to adjust to the fullness. But as the urgency grew, so did the force of his thrusts. He pulled your hair, his grip tightening as he picked up the pace, and you felt a rush of pleasure mixed with a hint of pain. He spat in your mouth, and you swallowed laughing like a whore, the salty taste only adding to your excitement.

Before you knew it you took his cock in your hand and guided it to your ass, feeling the head of his shaft nudge against my tight hole. The thought of what they were about to do made her pulse race, and she couldn't help but moan out loud when he finally pushed inside.

He was gentle at first, his eyes never leaving hers as he worked his way in inch by inch. But once he was fully seated, he couldn't hold back. His grip on her hair tightened, and he began to pound into her with a ferocity that had her seeing stars. She felt her orgasm building, the pressure in her core growing more intense with every thrust causing you to moan loudly. And when he whispered "shush" in her ear, the respectful "yes sir" that slipped from her lips only served to excite him further.

Their movements grew more frenzied, their kisses more desperate as they approached climax. The sound of their skin slapping together was the only music to their 'dance', and the scent of their passion filled the small space. Y/n felt her walls tighten around him, her body begging for release. And when it came, it was explosive. They both cried out in unison, their bodies shaking with the force of their shared orgasm. He filled her ass with his warm cum, and she felt it spilling out around his cock, mingling with their sweat and juices.

As the aftershocks subsided, they stayed there, panting and trembling, kissing softly. They had crossed a line, but in that moment, all that mattered was the connection they had just shared, the raw intimacy that had bound them together in the shadows of the festival. They knew they couldn't stay like this forever, but for now, they reveled in the illicit pleasure of their secret.

But you pull your skirt up and run away from him in embarrassment.

That night, as you lay in bed, your mind is filled with thoughts of the future. But then you hear your door slam open. It's Yuji, but his demeanor is different? He eyes are seem cocky and he combs his hair with his hand while his other is in his pocket. "I know we had sex but I didn't think he'd just come in without knocking and acting like he owned the place." I thought. As he got closer and the darkness left his face I noticed black markings on his face and a oddly dark aura hovering over his presence.

"What the fuck" I said out loud. "Ahhhh, fine! I'll admit it, I don't blame yuji for choosing you but he could have at least let me know you looked like THIS" he says with a cocky smirk on his face. "Yuji what are you talking ab-" I ask. "Oh be quiet little lady, we have a lot to discuss" he uttered in a sinister tone.

Hope you guys enjoyed the story and the art work. Let me know if you if guys would like me to continue the story or do something different. I'm open to mostly anything so let me know!

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sideblog-usernametaken · 2 months ago

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Spoilers for Pokemon Horizons Episode 67 below:

So the battle between Liko and Roy was fantastic, it showed off how both of them have progressed as trainers and how much they've bonded with their pokemon. The fight choreography was great, Floragato learning Feignt by accident and Fuecoco evolving were both hype, and the pacing was tight with excellent animation. Like, this is how you script and direct animated pokemon battles.

However, I'm still a bit bitter about the outcome of the match.

Narratively, it fits and shows their character growth. This is Liko's first real loss that she takes without it having a massive emotional impact on her, and now that Roy has started fighting strategically instead of move spamming it makes sense that he's gotten much better at battling. The latter is especially important given his goal is to battle the Shiny Rayquaza.

It also makes sense from a more meta narrative too: Roy was the only one with an evolved starter so it makes sense Fuecoco evolves now and it makes sense that he goes on to win the battle after. Not evolving Fuecoco would've either resulted in Roy stagnating, or Fuecoco just becoming too strong to be believable anymore. They could've turned it into a subplot where Roy is concerned Fuecoco hasn't evolved when Quaxly and Sprigatito both did. But no other pokemon has gotten that level of concern regarding evolution and Roy isn't the kind of character to get hung up on a detail like that so it definitely would've felt forced. This was the right time for him to evolve and I kind of expected it going into the episode.

So why do I feel bitter about the battle's outcome if everything about it makes sense and it met my expectations for the episode?

Because Liko deserves a break.

Seeiously, she has been fighting uphill for this entire arc with nearly every battle putting her at a heavy disadvantage in either typing or level. Her basics test? Yeah throw her at the Bug type gym leader, her only two pokemon are Grass and Psychic which are both weak to Bug. Her double battle against Rika? Yeah have her go up against the one Poison type on Rika's team (This one is slightly less egregious than everything else because the Clodsire does lose its stab poision damage and Katy is helping for the first half, but still). Her implementation test? Yeah, send her to the Ice type gym leader who's pokemon are at minimum 5-10 levels higher than hers, don't worry about the fact that both of his pokemon are super effective against her main too (Ice and Flying both beat Grass). She has to confront the Explores on her own? Have her run into Amethio and his Fire/Ghost Ceruledge that can counter both of her pokemon. She has a climactic battle with one of her friends in the finale? Yeah pit her against the one with the Fire main and Flying second (Which has paralysis moves to cut down Floragato's agility). Oh, and for funsies, give Liko the other disadvantage of her second pokemon only really start battling this arc, so she doesn't have the time to get a good sense of how she battles until it's too late.

Seriously, the only battle in this arc that I can think of where Liko had at least a type advantage was against the Garganacle. Even then she was battling against someone trying to take her out instead of someone battling for fun.

Meanwhile, Roy more often than not gets type advantages, and Dot's arc focuses almost entirely on her character outside of battle so it doesn't really matter if she wins or loses because either one works. It's like the writers are intentionally putting Liko at a major disadvantage because she's genuinely become a really good trainer, but the plot demands she keeps losing for character development.

Seriously, the level of strategy and competency she showed in her fight against Grusha should've gotten her a passing grade. It would've gotten her a passing grade from any other gym leader, heck she probably could've beaten most of the other gym leaders. But instead the narrative keeps beating her down so she has a valid reason to have low self esteem instead of letting her have some wins to give her a better sense of self confidence. Like, Roy failed his first try at the implementation test because he needed something to deeply rattle him to bring about a change in his fighting style. That's an example of a loss being effective for character growth. But with Liko? It's like she's not allowed to see the progress she's made until the second to last episode of the arc, and in the finale she gets shown up by Fuecoco evolving.

The only real saving grace of the battle's outcome is Geeta and Rika reaction. They recognize that Liko has the skill to take on the Champion track and seem completely unbothered by the fact she lost to Roy. That means they probably realized all of what I said above, and came to the conclusion that if Liko's this good working against these kinds of disadvantages then she'd be incredibly strong once she levels up some more or catches a full team. If that's true, it would explain why they didn't have the same talk with Roy since he's largely had an advantage in most of his battles.

Ideally, I'd end this fight in a tie. Have them knock each other out at the same time to establish that they're on even footing, and they both get the benefit of technically not losing. This ending would also build tension for their inevitable rematch.

I really hope the next arc gives Liko some more wins because she really needs it. At this point in her character arc having her continue to lose and deal self esteem issues would just mean she's stagnating. They need to have something more substantial to show her growth, especially since one of her main character flaws before this arc was her letting other people win when she could've beaten them. You can't just tell us she's talented, then show us she's talented, and then keep making her lose unfair fights so you can drag out her self esteem issues longer. She doesn't have to win every fight but she should at least be able to show off in a fair fight every once in a while.

#pokemon horizon spoilers #pokemon horizons #pokemon horizons episode 67

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isa-beenme · 1 year ago

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training w/ cassian? and cassian accidentally hurts the reader?

LOOKS WHO IS BACK (im truth I never went away, the thing is, I'm trying to write smut for Azriel AND I SIMPLY CAN'T WRITE SMUT IT DOESN'T WORK MY MIND DOESN'T WORK ANYTHING WORKS, so I'll just make this one for cassie baby and figure azriel story later)

My first one for this bat boy, and now the trio is officially complete in my blog, thank you all

I have two more to publish already, THE biggest I wrote till now

ENJOY

Trigger Warnings: mentions of misogyny, trauma and violence

Scars

The training area of the House of the Wind was spacious, equipped with various training dummies, weapons, and mats for sparring. Cassian had offered some weeks ago to train with you to help you build skills and confidence in self-defense. Since the first time he noticed how much of a scared animal you looked every time a male approached you too fast. He was actually the one who alerted his brothers of your uneasiness and told them to be more gentle around you.

You felt deeply thankful for his help, sometimes even sharing with him your past experiences with your almost-husband back in the Autumn Court. He looked mad every time and even offered to kill the male for you, and every time you said that destiny was going to take care of that male. Of course, destiny had a name and was the General of the Night Court but still. The news of your past lover's death hitted you with a strange sensation of relief and safety. Along with a bit of joy qhen you noticed the biggest smile you ever saw on Cassian's face the next day.

Now you stood facing each other, each wearing practice swords and wearing light training armor after finally finishing the endless warm up.

- Alright, let's finally start with some basic swordplay today. Remember, the key is not just strength, but also agility and strategy. Remember every tip, every position and the right way to hold the weapon. A sword is never dangerous enough if not used in the correct way - Cassian said with a grin as you nodded, a determined expression on your face.

You quickly began circling each other, and Cassian threw a few light swings on your way, testing your reflexes. You blocked them with ease, gaining more confidence with each successful parry.

- You're doing great, keep doing this way - Cassian encouraged - Now, try to counter-attack after you block my strikes.

As you continued the practice, you focused intently, feeling a growing sense of accomplishment with each successful move and praise from your trainer. Your past experiences had left you feeling vulnerable all the time, a cloud of fear passing over your head all day, thundering when a male would approach. But with Cassian's guidance, you were slowly reclaiming your sense of power and autonomy.

Cassian was honestly impressed by your progress. You are a quick learner and showed natural talent with each passing day. He could see the determination in your eyes, and it reminded him of himself when he was a child first learning to fight in those old camps. After a few more minutes of practice, Cassian suggested moving on to fast sparring instead of sword fighting, just to call it an end for the day's training.

- This will help you apply what you've learned in a more dynamic setting - He explained quickly.

You set aside the practice swords and began a controlled sparring session, trying to tag each other without using full force. Cassian observed your movements, offering occasional pointers or praises for your efforts. As you sparred, you seemed to become more immersed in the training, the adrenaline pumping through your veins. For a moment, the memories of the past started to fade away, replaced by the thrill of the present moment.

Then, during a moment of distraction, you left your right side open, and Cassian took advantage of the opportunity. He aimed a gentle, playful punch at your head, but it landed a bit harder than he intended, jostling you slightly.

Your hand flew to your head instinctively, and though the punch didn't cause any real pain, it was enough to trigger something buried deep inside you. The memories of past humiliations and the feeling of being powerless came flooding back, overwhelming you.

Suddenly, you dropped the attack position and clutched your head settling down on the ground as your breath began to quicken when the panic set in. Cassian immediately stopped, concern etched on his face. Your name dropped out his mouth but you couldn't listen, even if your body stayed there, your mind was very far away.

A flood of emotions engulfed you, and your mind became a battleground of memories you had long tried to suppress. The punch had inadvertently brought back vivid recollections of the time you spent in the Autumn Court, where you were born and raised. It was a place filled with cruelty, disrespect, and humiliation towards a good part of their females. In that moment of vulnerability, the echoes of past insults and belittling comments resurfaced. You remembered being disrespected and devalued, your worth reduced to nothing more than an object of amusement for others. The memories of invasive male attention, the objectification, and the constant feeling of powerlessness were overwhelming.

You felt trapped in a sea of emotions, unable to escape the suffocating weight of your past. You were paralyzed by the fear that you could still be the helpless, broken person you once was. In those moments, you felt the walls around your heart closing in, as if you were back in that dark place you fought so hard to escape. The emotions were raw, and you struggled to differentiate between the past and the present.

Amidst the chaos within, Cassian's voice reached your ears, gentle and reassuring. He was kneeling beside you, his concerned eyes offering you a way out of that nightmare.

- Hey, hey, it's okay - He said, the same way he's been repeating all the time, his voice soothing - I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you. Take deep breaths, you're safe here. I'm sorry - His words were like a guiding light, slowly pulling you back from the abyss.

You took shuddering breaths, trying to focus on the reality of the training area, on Cassian's presence, and on the fact that you were still safe in the House of the Wind. His words were soothing, but it took a few moments for you to regain control of your emotions. You looked up at him, tears forming in your eyes.

- I'm so sorry - You said while trying to dry the tears you didn't even feel them going down your face. Ashamed with the way you reacted you bent down your head, looking at the training floor.

- You have nothing to apologize for - Cassian said, his voice tender - I never should have thrown that punch, even playfully. I should have been more careful. I'm really sorry if i hurted you.

Even if you knew intellectually that it wasn't his fault, you couldn't help but feel guilty for your own reaction. You were frustrated with yourself for being so affected by the past, for letting it creep into the present and ruin such a good moment you were living. As you calmed down, wiping away the tears, you managed a faint reassuring smile.

- No, it's not your fault, it didn't hurt at all. It just brought back some bad memories from the past - You took a few more deep breaths, trying to steady yourself.

- I should have been more sensitive, then. I'm really sorry for triggering those memories - Cassian's expression softened with understanding.

As he sees you're recovering from the panic attack, he feels a wave of relief wash over him. He hates that he caused you pain, even if it was unintentional. He sits beside you, his concern etched on his face.

- I'm so sorry, I would never hurt you deliberately - he says earnestly when you finally look at him, your eyes still slightly teary but filled with understanding.

- I know you didn't mean to hurt me - You replied, managing a small smile - And thank you for calming me down and being there for me. It means a lot.

- You don't need to thank me. I care about you deeply, and I hate to see you in pain. You're such a strong and remarkable person, and I can't help but admire you for who you are - He takes your hand gently on his own, feeling its coldness he quickly wraps his other hand to heat it.

- Why would you say such things? - Your cheeks blush a soft pink as you look away, trying to process his words - I'm just a regular person, Cassian. Nyx's babysitter after all. Nothing special.

- No, you are so much more than that - Cassian shakes his head, determination in his eyes - You have a heart of gold, and your courage and resilience are truly inspiring. I see the way you handle Nyx, and it's clear how much he adores you - His eyes were so full of love that you couldn't think of a way to react - And, on top of all that, you are stunningly beautiful - You were taken aback by his compliments, not used to receiving such genuine praise.

- I-I don't know what to say - You stammer, feeling both flattered and embarrassed - But thank you for being here and helping me through it. You're really kind, Cassian.

- Of course, I'll always be here for you - He placed a comforting hand on your shoulder, still holding you with his other one - And I meant what I said earlier. You're strong, brave, and incredibly talented. Don't let those bad memories hold you back. You deserve to live your life to the fullest - Though you appreciated his words, you still struggled with the lingering vulnerability and self-doubt.

- I'll try my best. And I do want to keep training if you were wondering - You joke and start to get up helping him too as you both face each other again.

- I'm glad to hear that. We'll take it at your pace, and I promise to be more mindful from now on - Cassian smiled warmly, but his smile quickly dropped as he stopped to think, concern making itself noticeable on his expression.

- What happened? Is something wrong? - You asked, genuine care carrying your voice.

- Nothing, I just… - He takes a step closer to you, his height towering over your figure. He made a move to higher up his hand, waiting for your reaction. Noticing his move you inched your face closer, giving permission for him to touch you and speak his mind - Look, I don't want to put pressure on you, and I certainly didn't plan to say this now, but I can't keep it inside anymore. I love you, not just because of what you've been through, but for who you are. I wanted to tell you earlier, but I was afraid of triggering painful memories on you if I went too step forward - You pause for a moment, taking in his confession. Then, a genuine smile graces your lips.

- You really mean that? - You ask excitedly, joy filling every part of your heart now.

- Every word - Cassian replies, his voice steady and certain. Your smile widens, and you feel more at ease than you have in weeks.

- Well then, I have to say that I care about you too, Cassian. Your strength, your humor and your kindness, they all make you an incredible person - He can hardly believe his ears, and a radiant smile spreads across his face.

- So, you forgive me for my blunder earlier? - Cassian asked with a funny expression on his face, finally holding you with both hands, securing your body against his. A reminder that, if you fell, he would always be there to catch you.

- I do, but only if you agree to go on a date with me - You chuckle, giving his hand a playful squeeze. Cassian grins, his heart soaring with happiness.

- Anytime you want, sweetheart. It's a deal. I promise to be on my best behavior - As you felt a tingly sensation on your neck you know he really meant it, a promise marking your skin for as long as he decides to stay with you.

You both share a laugh, and as you decide to leave the training area together, Cassian can't help but feel grateful for Nyx's presence in their lives, for it brought him closer to someone he now knew he couldn't bear to lose. And in that moment, both of you realized that even in the darkest of times, love and understanding can find their way to heal the deepest wounds and create something beautiful from the ashes of the past.

As you walk together to your rooms, ready to take a shower and continue the day, you sort of feel a newfound sense of hope. While the memories from your past may not disappear overnight, you knew she could face them with Cassian by your side. Together, you would rewrite your story, creating a future that was stronger and brighter than your painful past.

You realized that you weren't alone anymore, that Cassian genuinely cared for your well-being. He had become more than just a training partner or the cute uncle from the kid you babysit; he was a friend and a support system you didn't know you needed. And maybe, in a closer future, even more than you ever thought you could have.

#cassian acotar #cassian x you #cassian x reader #cassian acosf #acotar #cassian

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